Was Brantley Gilbert in the Military?
Country music star Brantley Gilbert has made a name for himself in the music industry with his unique sound and energetic live performances. But before he became a household name, Gilbert had a different career path in mind. Yes, Brantley Gilbert was in the military.
Early Life and Education
Born on January 20, 1985, in Anderson, South Carolina, Gilbert grew up in a family of country music lovers. His father was a judge, and his mother was a teacher. Gilbert was raised with a strong sense of discipline and values that would later influence his military service.
After high school, Gilbert attended Augusta State University in Georgia, where he studied sports management. However, his plans took a sudden turn when the events of 9/11 occurred. Gilbert felt compelled to serve his country and decided to enlist in the United States Army.
Military Service
Gilbert enlisted in the Army in 2007 and served for four years. During his time in the military, he was stationed in Fort Hood, Texas, and served as an Army Cavalry Scout. His duties included reconnaissance, intelligence gathering, and combat operations.
Gilbert’s military experience had a profound impact on his life and music. In an interview with People Magazine, Gilbert said, "The military taught me how to be a man. It taught me discipline, it taught me how to work with people, and it taught me how to be selfless."
Musical Beginnings
After leaving the Army in 2011, Gilbert began pursuing his music career in earnest. He released his debut album, "Modern Day Prodigal Son," in 2009, which gained moderate success. However, it was his second album, "Halfway to Heaven," released in 2010, that caught the attention of country music fans and critics alike.
Gilbert’s music career took off after he released his third album, "Just As I Am," in 2012. The album included hit singles like "Country Must Be Country Wide" and "You Don’t Know Her Like I Do," which reached the top of the Billboard Country Airplay chart.
Music and Military Connection
Gilbert’s military experience has influenced his music in various ways. Many of his songs, such as "More Than Miles" and "We Were Us" (his duet with Eric Church), are inspired by his time in the Army. Gilbert has also used his platform to support veterans’ organizations and charitable initiatives.
Table: Brantley Gilbert’s Military and Music Career
| Military Career | Music Career | |
|---|---|---|
| Years of Service | 2007-2011 | 2009-present |
| Station | Fort Hood, Texas | Nashville, Tennessee |
| Rank | Army Cavalry Scout | Country Music Star |
| Notable Songs | – | Country Must Be Country Wide, You Don’t Know Her Like I Do, More Than Miles, We Were Us |
Conclusion
Brantley Gilbert’s military service has had a lasting impact on his life and music. From his discipline and selflessness learned in the Army to the inspiration for his songs, Gilbert’s military experience has shaped him into the country music star he is today. As he continues to entertain fans with his energetic live performances and hit songs, Gilbert remains proud of his military service and the lessons he learned along the way.
In his own words, Gilbert said, "I’m proud to be a veteran, and I’m proud to be a country music artist."
